Putting The Brakes On Unsafe Trucking Companies

DOT Announces Release of Two Major Updates to Enhance Motorcoach Safety

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) took steps yesterday, Dec. 13, 2012, to enhance motorcoach safety by updating its safety plan and by making it easier for consumers to file complaints about unsafe companies and drivers. The updated Motorcoach Safety Action Plan (MSAP) reflects the integrated activities of several of the Department’s agencies and their collaborative efforts to improve the safety of the motorcoach industry. It expands on the initial 2009 version by focusing on driver fatigue, driver behavior, vehicle maintenance, operator oversight, crash avoidance measures, and occupant protection.

The redesigned National Consumer Complaint Database (NCCDB) provides a more user-friendly interface for consumers to file complaints on unsafe commercial motor vehicle companies and drivers. It now allows consumers to include more detail in their safety complaints, and helps officials to more efficiently investigate complaints regarding interstate violations for passenger carriers. FMCSA encourages all bus riders to prioritize safety before booking a trip by visiting the “Look Before You Book” web page for multilingual safety tips: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safety-security/pcs/Index.aspx and by downloading the updated SaferBus mobile app. The mobile app also gives consumers a simpler way to access the NCCDB. The NCCDB is available at http://nccdb.fmcsa.dot.gov/HomePage.asp. For more information on passenger bus safety initiatives and to view the MSAP, please visit the FMCSA Web site at http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safety-security/pcs/Index.aspx. Contact Matthew Chambers: (202) 366-9999.